The bill amends the General Property Tax Act to expand the exemptions available for real property used and owned as a homestead. It specifies that real property owned by any disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran is exempt from property taxes. Additionally, it introduces a new exemption for the surviving spouse of a public safety officer who died as a direct result of a personal injury sustained in the line of duty. The bill clarifies that the exemption for surviving spouses continues as long as they do not remarry and applies to any homestead property they own, including property acquired after the veteran's or officer's death.

To qualify for the exemption, individuals must file an application with the local assessing officer within the calendar year for which the exemption is claimed. The bill also outlines the process for proration of the exemption if the property is not used as a homestead for the entire tax year. It defines key terms such as "disabled veteran" and "veteran," and specifies the criteria for determining ownership of the property. The changes aim to provide additional support to veterans and their families by alleviating their property tax burdens.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 211.7